a permanent mark on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a permanent mark on" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a lasting impact or influence that something or someone has on a person, place, or situation. Example: "The experience of traveling abroad left a permanent mark on her perspective of the world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

"Things leave a permanent mark on you.

The New York Times

Whether the practice will leave a permanent mark on the language remains to be seen.

The New York Times

"That incident report will be a permanent mark on my record".

The New York Times - Health

They have, however, left a permanent mark on the politicians who ignored them.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Lost" first languages leave a permanent mark on the brain, a report this week has found.

The Guardian

The fight to end General Pinochet's rule left a permanent mark on them.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

"We could not put a permanent mark of any sort on the grave; there was no respect for the dead," Shah says.

The Guardian

But one truth exists across the board: Whatever leads a person to put a permanent marking on their body, chances are that person has at least something to say about it.  .

Huffington Post

This is a permanent mark, and will remain on the transcript even if the student repeats the course.

Columbia University

Do not use whiteboard spray or other cleaners on the board or eraser when treating a permanent mark.

WikiHow

Make sure not to leave a mess on the sidewalk, since egg whites can leave a permanent mark.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a permanent mark on", consider the specific context to ensure it accurately reflects the intended meaning. This phrase is suitable when describing effects that are irreversible or deeply ingrained.

Common error

Avoid using "a permanent mark on" when the impact is temporary or easily reversible. Instead, opt for phrases that reflect a more transient effect, such as "a significant impact on" or "a temporary impression on".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a permanent mark on" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically following a verb to indicate the enduring impact or influence something has on someone or something. Ludwig provides examples demonstrating its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

18%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a permanent mark on" is a versatile and frequently used expression to describe lasting impacts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, science, and academic writing. While alternatives like "a lasting impression on" or "an indelible impact on" offer nuanced variations, "a permanent mark on" effectively conveys the sense of an irreversible or deeply ingrained effect. When using this phrase, ensure the context accurately reflects the intended meaning and avoid overstating the permanence of the impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a lasting impression on

Focuses on the enduring effect on someone's mind or feelings.

an indelible impact on

Emphasizes the impossibility of removing or forgetting the impact.

a lasting effect on

Highlights the long-term consequences or changes resulting from something.

a permanent influence on

Stresses the ongoing effect on someone or something's development or behavior.

a profound effect on

Implies a deep and significant impact, though not necessarily permanent.

a long-lasting impact on

Similar to lasting effect, but emphasizes the duration of the impact.

a significant imprint on

Focuses on the notable and important mark left behind.

a persistent effect on

Highlights the continuous and unwavering nature of the effect.

an enduring legacy for

Suggests a lasting positive impact that continues through generations.

a transformative effect on

Focuses on the capacity to cause a significant change or alteration.

FAQs

How can I use "a permanent mark on" in a sentence?

Use "a permanent mark on" to describe a lasting or irreversible effect. For example, "The war left "a permanent mark on" the country's economy."

What can I say instead of "a permanent mark on"?

You can use alternatives like "a lasting impression on", "an indelible impact on", or "a lasting effect on" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a permanent mark on" in formal writing?

Yes, "a permanent mark on" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing long-term consequences or significant impacts. However, consider the specific nuance you wish to convey and whether an alternative like "a lasting effect on" might be more suitable.

What's the difference between "a permanent mark on" and "a lasting impression on"?

"A permanent mark on" suggests an unchangeable effect, while "a lasting impression on" focuses more on the enduring memory or feeling. The former implies irreversibility, whereas the latter emphasizes memorability.